State of Esshar

[Cynthia]

Year 1757AC

"Let's make magic happen, people."

-------

✾ - The tides of change have taken place. Basil and Mars have passed the mantle over to their middle child, Parsley. This was announced nearly six months into the young woman turning Eighteen on the eve of the Twilight Masquerade.

-
✾ - Speaking of... A speech was made during the masquerade, but it appears that Parsley is not one for long-winded narratives on how she aspires to change the world or anything of the sort. Instead, the young queen extends a hand out to those looking to find what magic they may be looking for in the long halls of Alabastre's knowledge base. From the stars, to holy magic, to nature itself... It really depends on what a person may want tutoring for!

-

✾ - The Queen seeks more to add to the long halls! If a person wishes to donate an item that helped them learn to hone their magic to Alabastre, they are urged to pass it on to the city so that others may be given the same opportunity to learn as well. Trust us, it will be in good hands...

-

✾ - Recently, Parsley has asked for people to come and donate to a pure little sapling she has collected on her expeditions. Due to the wild events at the Masquerade, there weren't many opportunities to make sure people got their chance to interact with it. If one wishes to interact with this tree, all they need to do is approach Parsley and ask. (You can DM me at Kcalb#8551 for a scene!)

-

✾ - The Ilian Clan as a whole would like to express their gratitude toward Illuminated Yoshiko Taiyang for her dedication and response to bringing down the occult ridden Izurza for her part in killing Kofe's son, Cassius. She is regarded with high honors within Alabastre's walls and has a place there no matter what rumors may mill.

-

✾ - Some may have heard that Rella Caller and Kofe are working toward advances on easing the mind of occult-ridden influences. Rella has recently opened up a new clinic within the city's walls to work with those that have ambled their way down the path of destruction. It is wise to seek her out if you harbor the occult within you, because some say that Parsley is not too kind toward occultists who do not make the effort to work with her...

-

✾ - Among Alabastre's land and extending out from it, people begin to notice some very large plants with bulbs attached to them. When people approach these bulbs, there seems to be odd stirring and shifting inside of them. When asked, Parsley doesn't necessarily give a response. Why? Who knows...

-

✾ - If anyone wishes to join expeditions dedicated to expanding the knowledge base inside of Alabastre, they may approach Parsley, Tea, or Anthonio Montclaire in regards to it. If the expedition is more geared toward a secretive type of magic, it may be less open to the public. Tea is currently gearing up to go on a large-scale expedition that will usher in new technological advances within the city.

-

✾ - Lastly, Tea is selling Transceivers. It is highly encouraged to speak with her if you wish to purchase one or even have one made.

-

Any questions? Need a scene? Join the Alabastre Discord.

[Mouse]

1757 AC

“Progress over Morality. That is what we teach in the Motherland.”

The flags and banners that Osrona once flew are torn down, shredded. Once a Shimmering City, but no longer apt in that name. A once noble and proud city, now replaced with a model of progress and industrialization. The City of Rust.

⚙In a showcase at Osrona’s factory, it was revealed that Osrona now possessed the technology required to cage and cause demons to heel. This technology possessed enough strength to bend a demon’s very will to the magi whom was controlling it, forcing them to obey a single command. Predictably, this ended as one would expect- With the demons lashing out, and inevitably getting run out of Osrona proper. Though no official declaration of war is made, it’s very clear on Osrona’s stance in the future when it comes to dealing with these beasts.

-

⚙In a move completely unprecedented in Osrona’s history, the City has now, entirely, and officially, given itself over to Barsburg. A strike force of the machine launched mechanized magitech armored suits into the heart of the city, while ground soldiers stormed the gates and the docks.. But, surprisingly, were merely let in unharmed. After a brief period of tension, the city has officially buckled and kneeled, and is now part of the larger Machine proper, with Tanya pyr Volkova revealing herself as being sent from Barsburg nearly nine years ago, succeeding entirely on letting the Machine infiltrate Osrona.

-

⚙In accordance with the above, the Military of Osrona has changed to better represent these happenings. Instead of the Authority existing as the singular entity, there are now a set of four Captains whom control different aspects within the city, but are all expected to rise to normal military duties. These four captains and their platoons are:

-

Misha’s Authority; Polices citizens and serves as Walter’s personal guard.

.

Yarrow’s Iron Reavers: Primarily focuses on R&D and the invention of new tools in the Empire.

.

Kirill’s Diamond Eagles: A frontline force focused primarily on the subjugation and capture of demons.

.

Volyn’s Clockwork Hounds; The military police force, focusing on ensuring Barsburg customs are upheld within the other platoons and amidst soldiers.

.

The Machine slowly begins to settle itself into Osrona properly, with all of the citizens now being expected to follow the rules and regulations set forth by the Empire. Whether or not this goes peacefully or the once Shimmering City rebels is uncertain, but with both Walter and Tanya sharing the same sentiments.. Barsburg appears to have cemented itself, finally, in this area of Esshar.

[Esmeraude]

1758AC
   
Starfall.
   

Victory is ours.

With the Demons losing all their alliances with cities, they march towards our many strong and reliable warriors.

And on that day, we showed them why they do not underrestimate the determination, and resolve of our people.

Through endless hordes slaughtered, Nysea and Myllenoris do not have their backs against the wall for long.

And Starfall is safe from their grubby hands, to be put towards something with much more purpose.

   

Yoshiko Taiyang had pushed their leader back, Tyranny.

Saewyn had slain one of their strongest demons, Morok.

Amalia Ghede forces another of the demons to flee, Irkalla.

And Twilly, having saved the life of Avlainn, captured Yuri.

Before Yuri is put to the blade, and slain for his actions by Aelianna rei Petrakis.

The routes between Myllenoris and Alabaster remain open, thanks to the successful defense.
But with other threats on the horizon, the demons are not 'yet' pursued back into their forests.
For now we focus on celebrating what we have won, and recouperating, while growing much stronger.

      

The Valeborne.
   

With many of our people accomplishing a lot during these hard times, promotions have been made.
And honorable mentions, for those that have done justice for our city since they joined us.

Twilly and Saewyn both are made Greycloaks.
Leni steps down from the Mistseer position, promoting Myrin.
Elisha Avery Ghede is promoted to Mistseer.

And all those within the Valeborne.
The High Lord appreciates you all.

The Council formed at the start remains, but changes.
Amalia Ghede, Finn Ghede, Aerilion Tsuchai, and Leni.

Welcome these as the voices that aid with decisions.
Experienced, and recognized figures within Myllenoris.

Any who wish to become Acolytes, seek out a Greycloak.
Appolus Granz, Emi Kriemhild, Twilly, and Saewyn.

     

Nysea.
   

Due to current circumstances, Nysea does not return to their homes.
With the threat of Barsburg getting even bigger, they remain united with Myllenoris.

Some promotions are annouced.

Felix Durages becomes a Radiant.
Avlainn becomes apart of the Queensguard.

Any who wish to to fly the banner of the First Light, should seek out Anastasia ven Astor, or Felix Durages.

It is also Alledged that the Queen, Aeliana rei Petrakis. Continues to seek out the relics of the Round Table.
It is said these relics have been sought to eradicate the Demon menace, as the Knights of Old once did.

   

Captives.

Those that are held by the demons, even from the past.
Those hearts that still beat proudly, and loud.
We are going to save you, we swear.

Please be patient, do not let your hearts grow hate.
We will never forget you, even those we lost.
Hold on... No matter what it takes, hold on.

[Milly]

1759AC

Upon the eve of 1759, a great wave of change has overtaken Theria.

Revan orn Task has taken the title of Overlord of Theria. All final decisions go through him, he is also the de-facto Patriarch of the Fireblooded.

Raeliana is still titled High Priestess of the Fireblooded. Rumors circulate she was offered a position as Dragonlord but deferred it for the time being.

Possible talks are in progress with Myllenoris and Alabastre - what does Theria have up it's sleeve?

Demons are no longer welcome within Theria's mountains officially.

The facts are in, folks - Theria is hiring for positions within it's factory to get the ball rolling. Locate Revan to sign up!

The funeral for Dun Task, Hades Task, Valero Task and Pachua Drakos went forward as planned, with lovely speeches being offered by multiple people.

Arriving fashionably late, Barsburg General Walter pyr Docro immediately sought to challenge Revan for his fraticide. The two fought, and despite Revan's loss, Theria still retains it's single Overlord for now. Chit chat and gossip indicates the High Priestess bid Barsburg to leave the mountain immediately after the fight concluded in a bold if not sassy display. Revan's condition, while alive, remains tentative and unknown.

Excerpts from the speeches given by Revan orn Task, Raeliana and Anlaufr are as follows:

Anlaufr:

After some time preparing the Funeral, the moment had finally come. This at first would only be for Dun Task, but at Raelina's request, Anlaufr organized this to also be the funeral for Valero Task, Hades Task and Pachua, the former Patriarch of the Fireblooded.


Each body was wrapped in some cloths, resting above a fire pit and with their belongings around them. Apart from Pachua's body, where there was only a red suit in the place to symbolize him. Dun's body was in the center and the rest around him.

Anlaufr took a deep breath, trying to find the right words and then start to speak, "I appreciate the presence of everyone who is here today, on this sad day in our lives.

Today we are not just saying goodbye to important figures of Theria.. No. We are saying goodbye to great friends, members of our family! All of them were great warriors during their lives and that in the end had honorable deaths.

Their deeds will never be forgotten, where tales about such will be told to future generations, being marked in the history of our city!" He finished, lowering his arms.

His gaze briefly turned to Revan and Raelina, where then he continued, "Revan and Raelina. Would ya two like to say something to those who are here?

Where as soon as both of ye finish.. Everyone here will be able to make a farewell gesture. Leaving something near the bodies or saying some words of respect." He said, now giving space to them and stepping back.

Anlaufr had basically gathered everyone there. He was not able save his friend, Dun, but at least he would be making this gesture to say goodbye and soon help with the project for which he gave his life.

Raeliana:

The High Priestess herself had insisted upon the funeral being held for more than just Dun. For while the original Crown Prince of Theria himself had lead them for so long with his advice towards the younger generation, Valero and Hades had in addition made their mark, as well as Pachua. There's a brief moment of hesitation before Raeliana would step forward, amongst the piles of stacked logs ready to be set on fire, to destroy their bodies as the ultimate sacrifice towards Ryujin and Garljing himself.


"Dun Task held Theria within his grasp shortly after it's founding, and he found himself at it's helm even as the great Dragons from Sluthia themselves set their sights upon the Free City. Yet, even after being burned, he continued to lead - with the Dragon's blessing." She said, eyesight looking between them all. Was it that surprising the High Priestess herself would know of their history?

"Even in his old age, when his body should have failed him, he continued to push. He pushed for greatness, he pushed for Chaos, he pushed to ensure we'd always remain free. I think he succeeded, personally." She added with a dip of her head.

"Valero and Hades were akin to him, in that they were never satisfied with simply how things were. They pushed the boundaries on what it meant to be great. Some say they allowed Theria to stagnate - but I personally disagree. Everyone has their own opinion on things, in the end."

Her hands were hidden within the sleeves of her robes, as she inhaled deeply once more.

"Pachua Drakos fought his best against those who would have seen Dun Task slain after being poisoned - for he believed it was not the Dragon's way to use poison. He defended his title of Patriarch and took it by force as every Dragon would have understood. It's only now after his death can we truly appreciate his sacrifice. He gave his life for a Theria he believed in, and he died in honor.

They all died in honor."

She'd step back, eyes remaining closed.

Revan orn Task

Finding himself at the front of the service, Revan golden hues would look over each of the pyres that had been erected for the deceased. A youth that had been misguided, two of his own brothers, and his own father that he poisoned. For someone that had a hand in each of their deaths, Revan would show signs of his own grieving.


Though he stood tall, his expression neutral, his hair was rather shaggy and unkempt, his eyes were sunken and darkened from lack of sleep. He had made his own nightmare a reality, and now he would be standing at their funeral, with the judging eyes of all those around.

Yet he would still hold those fond memories of each of them, despite the things he felt he had to do, he would find something to say about each of them.

"Pachua was a good, honorable Fireblooded, his conviction was as strong a warrior as he was.. And I hold a deep respect for him. I.. Already sent him off with my own ethereal flame as I recognized his valor."

His gaze drifting to Hades, the one who had secretly always been their older brother, and it showed as both Valero and Revan adored Hades with every fiber of their being.

"I always looked up to you, Hades.. I had my doubts about Valero, as well as myself.. But I always thought that of all of us, you'd be the more successful. You only wished to push humanity forward.. But you lost touch with the people you sought to help."

A sharp inhale as he would look towards the brother he had originally challenged, his rival since birth. "Valero and I.. Never got along.. Since childhood I blamed him for being the cause of our mother's death, and his redhair was evidence of such.. Yet I think deep down.. I was truthfully jealous that he had gotten something from her.. And I didn't.. But.. It would probably make him happy for me to admit this, but my win loss ratio to him is still one to three.. So I guess I can't ever fix that.. So.. Congrats Valero, you got one last one over me."

A short huff through his nose as he would try to crack some sort of joke, perhaps hoping that the redhead would sit up to make and start to roast him, anything to stop him from talking.

Yet.. Nothing..

"And Finally.. My Father.. The man I thought to be capable of anything when I was a child.. I sought to emulate him in everything he did and was.. Yet.. I simply could never fill those clown shoes of yours, Father.. But.. I promise.. I will take care of Theria, just as you and Rinn had done.. And I will keep those embers you tended for so many years alive."

Stepping forward, Revan would ignite into his own cyan fire, and just as Dun had sent Rinn off, the Patriarch would do the same for the Father and the children of Theria.

"If anyone wishes to say any final words, there spirits will linger so long as there is an ember on their pyre."

[ry0un0suke]

Did you sleep well?
1760AC
 
❇ For years has the Coven been... quit. Watching, lurking, intermingling with every corner of Esshar. Presence made itself known, a proclamation made by the proclaimed Supreme, Jianyu Xi. Absence of a certain blizzard like individual may be felt by Esshar after her domination of Nysean-Myllenoris forces at Starfall. Though her efforts alone could not save the Ascended Demon Morok and Jianyu's could not save Yuri. The Dreadwoods and Coven acknowledge other losses such as the Kaor Jaeger and absences or other Kaors. Though Ascension made itself known as another broke their shell.
 x
❇ Months prior did several soldiers of rank within the combined Osrona-Barsburg military end up in the hands of Hel's most heinous. Such was a collaborative effort of witch and Ascended, Irkalla. Two cogs were taken from the Machine. Sergeant Cecilia Pitri and Lieutenant Batu. The demand of ten-thousand coin or arcanium made for the Sergeant's release. The Empire responded with retaliation and force, and for such?
 x
❇ In their raid of the Dreadwoods were the soldiers of Barsburg bested and thanks to the Ascended Irkalla, yet another cog, one shiny and valuable was plucked from the well-oiled machine, Captain Kirill pyr Orlov. Three held captive within the depths of the tainted woods and even with the Ascended Tyranny placed in the clutches of Barsburg, the Supreme made a bold declaration, be it truth or lie:
x 
❇ Like the brothers and sisters of old Covens in the past, the captives are said to be put to the stake. Though, no fires have yet to billow out of the Dreadwoods nor has Hel swept over the outskirts and surrounding areas of the jungle the woods resided in. A bluff? 'Negotiations' for the three lives of the soldiers made by General Walter pyr Docro after their failure to secure the taken cogs, but still does the Ascended and witch hold claims to the lives of the soldiers and Osrona of the proclaimed demon King Tyranny. The Coven has plans and still did that offer remain on the table....
 x
❇ But it multiples: Fifteen-thousand coin for the freedom of Sergeant. Irkalla laid claim over Lieutenant and Captain, word circles that the Ascended is willing to release either Captain or Lieutenant for the release of the King, alive. Preparations are made in the meantime. Essence will be siphoned and perhaps it is time that the Dark Lord take more claims to souls. Years prior and at the hands of the Coven did they deliver fallen Radiant Aeolus to the depths of Hel. He hungers for more souls, the valued cogs of Barsburg's Machine. The Lord can claim in more ways than death. Pressure will continue to be applied to the ranks of the military. How many more will be taken and turned? Corrupted or even given to the Lord as a gift? The worth of these soldiers lied only in their value to the Empire and abundance of essence.
x
❇ Those who feel that have any worth to offer may seek the Supreme. The Coven has bode their time for long enough, though tread at your own risk!
x

[CrystikRage]

Blessed by the Stars

1800 AC

• The Grimmore Family has been seen about Achyon and the Docro manor a great deal, with rumors beginning to spread that the family is attempting to ally itself with Osrona's enemy, if they haven't already.
  

• Tensions between the family and the assorted tribes of the Moxtli are extraordinarily high, with full war surely around the corner.
  

• In addition to the above, the full support of the Grimmore house has been pledged to help claim and defend Silverwall Mine against any invaders.
  

• Finally, word of mouth has begun to spread that Vales Grimmore is seeking the position of Archmage of Osrona, and has made no secret of it. He further encourages anyone who wishes to abandon the deadweight of the past to find their way to the Grimmore manor.
  

[Math]

1800AC
"Glory to the Empire."

ᔸ  The capital has established the High Council of Achyon, composed of Trik Gutterrunner representing the Razuka; Iris representing the Coalescence; Luca pyr Docro representing the Docro Family; Amelia Locke pyr Aertas representing the Aertas Family; Freda Von Bohm representing the technomancers and Neoni Faudain representing the military.

ᔸ  As such, the same council has instituted Neoni Faudan as Achyon's military leader.

ᔸ  The Coalescence has visited Achyon, guiding the city towards a goal: detaining a Primordial. The advances under this subject are not of public knowledge.

ᔸ  Luca pyr Docro has met with Vales Grimmore to discuss the possibility of an alliance. Whilst their relations with other factions are currently unknown, it is very well spread the Grimmores and Achyon are uniting efforts to fight against the assorted tribes of the Moxtli.

ᔸ  Achyon insists the Silverwall Mines belongs to them, commencing efforts to remove any invading tribesmen from the region. Exuding brutality, this city will undoubtedly retaliate with all their might - under this bias, a tribal leader was branded in one of their patrols.

"OUR territory. We don't want your lethargic bodies inside OUR territory. We don't want you savages actively hunting OUR men. You are picking a fight with gargantuan predators - mayhaps you will understand this way."

ᔸ  Neoni Faudain has divided the military under three divisions. The first is the Assault Division, led by Eve, acting as the Lieutenant. Under her are Lyndis, Ryker, Zumurrud, Bruno and Mercedes. The second is the Intelligence Division, with Matryona as the Lieutenant, and those under her are Nelly, Deckard and Nekra. The last is the Support Division, with Arken's rank being that of Lieutenant. Vendel, Nidaz and Kyra are under him.

ᔸ The savages have stolen a weapon from one of our factories, but it was already recovered.

[Myradin]

1801AC

"My people... The Chieftains and I have been working tirelessly as of late. Though there is much we need to inform you of. Within the walls of Achyon and their already spiritless machines, they house something much worse. A foul fleshcrafter of a Razuka, one who considers themselves above the Divines as all of Achyon does... Yet this is far worse. Shambling corpses, only held together by his magic. I have seen some of them, fought them, and put them to rest.

                                                                                

We cannot let such an atrocity continue, for the sake of the balance, and the Spirits who weep in their wake we must put a stop to it. Any who ally themselves behind that man are not our allies, they are not our friends, they are nothing but our enemies. Though we are not the only ones to share this sentiment, and all who would fight for the sake of ending this evil will stand by our side.

                                       

As your Shaman, this is a call to arms, that place is infected with an unnatural disease. Until it is removed, it is our duty to ensure it spreads no further.”

- Spirit-Dancer D’noxa, 1801AC

• The Maloti Tribe’s shaman Gou Meztin has stepped down from his post within the tribe, his position unclear as rumours surface of some type of redemption from the spirits the Meztin is embarking on.
  

•  The spirit-dancer known as D’noxa is seeking out worthy apprentices to pass down her techniques and traditions. Word continues to spread throughout the tribes that her potential student could become the heir to her position.
  

• An assault on a prized factory within Achyon resonated throughout the tribesmen. The returning members of the assault team spoke of the spirit-less husks within the opposition that they faced, talk of magitech prototypes and a mana core within the groups spoils were spoken of loudly.
  

• Multiple tribesmen can be seen speaking to the pirates of the east known as The Deep Company at the beaches that docked the ship dubbed ‘The Pauper’s Bride’, most mentionably among them would be Gou Meztin, known for his steady relationship with their members.
  

• Leaders within the Moxtli tribes and the Osrona higher-echelons met within neutral grounds, allegedly both parties left satisfied, none of the usual fighting breaking out between the two groups as both left unharmed.
  

•  With the rallying call of the spirit-dancer D’noxa. Moxtli officially requests for Trik Gutterrunner, the crafter of such abominations to be handed over to the Moxtli, for the spirits to be appeased and such a nefarious art to be put to rest.
  

•  Moxtli activity dramatically increased in response to the aggression shown with the Achyon’s declaration of claiming the Silverwall Mines north of the tribes. It wasn’t uncommon for patrols of tribesmen to be roaming around the area in search of any Outsiders.
  

[Kazuki]

Year 1801AC
"The most tranquil place on Esshar..."
____

☼ - Chancellor Yoshiko Taiyang has declared Starfall where her Shrine is located to be neutral ground. Diplomatic meetings and anything related may be held here with her permission. 

☼ - Those wishing to be apart of the Irradiated or learn of the religion may contact Yoshiko via messenger bird or visit her at the shrine in question. She is currently taking students who want to learn the religious techniques that she possesses.

☼ - Looking for work? House Taiyang is definitely looking for anyone who is lost and would like to do something with their future. Find Yoshiko or Haruki Taiyang!

☼ - In addition to being a neutral ground, Achyon, Moxtli Tribes, Osrona, Fireblooded, and Everyone else is allowed on Starfall and in the shrine without question. Keep hostilities off of the island.

Have any questions? Want to request a scene? Add me!

[Cpt. Prinny]

1801 AC

Their cowardly ways show again; I have yet to see another race that adapts as well to fear as the dragons and their own progeny. Hiding in their numbers, isolating themselves in a false safety caused only by chance. Mark my words, drakanites- If this even reaches most of you, cowardly scaled ones who refuse to leave that city. They ring true. I will turn your scales and bones into armors and weapons, used to stab through the heart of the one you give your life to protect.

- Darius Aghili

Come back, I swear I'll treat you all very kindly.

- Patella

• The Dragon Slayers, however small, have slowly laid claim to the Shadowed Desert. Intruders upon these lands have been reminded of such, even if they were not expelled instantly afterwards at first; The renewing presence of blood painting the sands, however, easily paints the image that while they are still allowing outsiders to come by and reap the desert's bountiful harvest - Especially Drakanites - They will not shy away from upholding their position as owners of the place if need be.
  

• After the recent raid by the Fireblooded on their home, their losses were cut short; None of their own numbers were impacted in the long term, and the narrow victory of the drakanites was nearly snatched away when one of their stragglers was captured, being nearly killed by Patella - And barely saved by a Dragonlord.
  

• Rumours from the Shadowed Desert start to circulate, suggesting that the Slayers have gained knowledge of a Drake’s lair as well.